Words by The Urban Journal
We chat to John Mgbemena, AKA Caesar, about modelling, acting and breaking into the music industry.
Hi John, thanks for talking to us. Tell us a little about yourself…
My name is John Mgbemena, also known as Caesar, my artist name. I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. My parents were born and raised in Nigeria, which makes me Nigerian. I am a model, actor, and musician. I started modelling at Georgia State University, and it connected me to acting. Modelling was something that was outside my comfort zone and challenged me. I was timid and an introvert in my early childhood, but when I started modelling in college, I have since been more confident, charismatic, and hardworking. My music career began when I dropped my single back in 2019. My single “Never Gave Up” has been picking up notoriety since then. I recently dropped an independent album, I Hate it Here, on November 17, 2020. I enjoy what I do, I am always motivated by the unique challenges I face, and I aspire to be the best version of myself.
Before starting your music career, you modelled. How was that?
Modelling was one of the best things to have happened to me. Like I said before, it challenged me. It has taken me all over the country, from coast to coast, and introduced me to new sceneries, experiences and opportunities. For one, I’ve done several fashion shows – Macy’s, Dillard’s, and Broner Bros. among them. I’ve also done commercials with Delta, Coca-Cola, and even Adidas, to name a few. So, if not for modelling, I would have never been in the position that I am currently in today.
What made you want to become a model/actor? What’s the most enjoyable aspect of it?
The challenge and doing something uncomfortable made me want to become a model/actor. Growing up, I was shy, afraid of public speaking, and more of an introvert. I knew when I went to college I was going to do something uncomfortable to help me grow as an individual. It just so happened to be modelling, which then introduced me to acting. It provided me with confidence, charisma, and a few key traits that most successful actors have. I could never imagine that I would be a successful model and actor, especially by the way my childhood went. With hard work, dedication, and doing something outside your comfort zone, you can be anything you want in this world. The most enjoyable aspect of modelling and acting is the travelling, the fitness, and the new people you encounter. It’s opened me up to newfound passions, experiences and countless opportunities.
What inspires you?
My parents’ journey from Nigeria to America is what inspire me. It inspires me to take risks, believe in myself, and never to give up. If my parents never took the chance to come to America, I would have been born and raised in Nigeria. Coming to America would have probably been my dream. My parents taking that risk to leave home and come to America, and still becoming successful in America on top of it all, is inspiring. It motivates me every day, even with my highs and my lows, to always give this world and my aspirations everything I got. Nonetheless, my parents invigorate me to be the best version of myself in anything I put my mind to.
Whose career (models, actors, or musicians) do you hope to replicate?
Will Smith, Kanye West, and Drake. They are great icons, moguls, unique in their field, and have done so much in their profession. I hope to replicate any one of their careers, in my unique way, because they’re innovators in their field. Also, they do so much for their community and have created change for the people and world around them.
What’s the big dream? The goal in 5 years?
The big dream is to become successful enough to provide for my family and give back to my community. The accolades are great to achieve, but I aspire to fulfil my purpose in this world and live a meaningful life. Manifesting my legacy and my dreams are the only fulfilments I need in this world. The goal in 5 years is to be living the dream, giving back more, travelling more, continuing a healthy lifestyle, and hopefully be with my queen and have my own family. With prayer, hard work, motivation, and dedication, this will all be possible.
Find John on Spotify and Apple Music as Caesar, on Instagram as @johnmgbemena and Twitter as @john_mgbemena.
For more music-related content, check out our picks for The Best Albums of 2020.